Percussion instrument and noisemaking device

ABSTRACT

A noisemaking devices are described, which may be a blade member having a handle joining portion at its base, a flexible plate member operable for making sound (e.g., low-pitched, clicking sounds and alternative, louder, high-pitched clicking sounds), the flexible plate member having an indention that is operable for producing a sound when the flexible plate member is flexed about the indention. A handle, an upper portion of which is joined to the flexible plate member and be pivotably joined to the blade such that the blade pivots when the handle is translated perpendicular to the plane of the blade, and the blade and the flexible plate member being oriented such that when the blade pivots, the blade causes the flexible plate member to flex and thereby make the sound.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present Utility patent application claims priority benefit of theU.S. provisional application for patent 60/671,305 filed on Apr. 14,2005 under 35 U.S.C. 119(e).

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX

Not applicable.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office,patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rightswhatsoever.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to percussion instruments and noisemakingdevices or cheering mechanisms, more particularly to hand-heldpercussion instruments and noisemaking devices or cheering mechanismsused to create a variety of sounds. Such percussion instruments andnoisemakers are used by musicians, performers, sports fans, partygoersand others performing, celebrating or needing such devices or mechanismsto replace, simulate or supplement musical sounds, cheering, applause orother artificial or non-artificial sounds.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional percussion instruments include, without limitation, drums,tambourines, cowbells, cymbals, castanets, maracas, and wooden blocks.Percussion instruments used to create unconventional sounds include,without limitation, garbage cans, garbage can lines, metal pots andpans, washboards and hollow logs.

Handheld percussion instruments and noisemakers are found in concerthalls, schools, sports stadiums, at New Year's celebrations, at birthdayparties, and at a host of other events and special occasions. Musicians,performers, cheering fans and partygoers use percussion instruments andnoisemakers to make more sounds, louder sounds and noise, and/ordifferent sounds and noise than if, they were just using their voices orhands to create the same or similar sounds or noise. Percussioninstruments and noisemakers can also assist a person's ability to makemusical sounds or noise over longer periods with relative ease.

An example of a conventional handheld percussion instrument andnoisemaker is the Smith instrument illustrated in U.S. Pat. No.4,075,922, which is a sound-producing clapper assembly capable ofproducing, a soft pattering sound and an alternative, louder, rattlingdrum-roll noise. A limitation in Smith's design is that it only producestwo distinct sounds. Furthermore, the majority of the sound generatedcannot be projected in any one particular direction. The sound producedmoves away from the device in a 360-degree pattern. This 360-degreepattern could project sound in the direction of people nearby who mayfind the noise undesirable.

Handheld noisemaking devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,984,761issued to Kalinowski, in U.S. Design Pat. No. D373,150, issued toZaksenberg and in U.S. Design Pat. No. D392,000 issued to Rapp. TheKalinowski, Zaksenberg, and Rapp designs are each noisemakers that use ahandle to force multiple outer paddles to strike a center paddlecreating sound. Zaksenberg and Rapp both designed their noisemakers withtheir outer paddles located closer to the center paddle. Kalinowski wasable to show why the Zaksenberg and Rapp designs provided aninsufficient amount of sound. Kalinowski successfully increased thesound of his design when he repositioned the paddles further away fromhis center paddle by relocating the pivot area.

Another example of a known noisemaker is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No.20010034177 issued to Hunn, who describes a noisemaking deviceconsisting of a head at tone end attached to a handle. The handle is atleast partially hollow. A user is able to, at least partially createnoise by filling the handle with various items like bells and balls andshaking the noisemaking device causing the contents to rattle off theinside of the handle. Because a person must hold the handle to useHunn's noisemaking device, the person's hand may undesirably reduce thelevel of noise resonating from the device.

Hunn's noisemaking device like those illustrated earlier by Smith,Kalinowski, Zaksenberg and Rapp, project only a moderate amount of sounda short distance and mostly in a 360-degree pattern. Furthermore, thedesigns by Smith, Hunn, Kalinowski, Zaksenberg, and Rapp each producegenerally only one or two sounds, either increasing or decreasingdepending on the amount of effort used to activate the device.

Another example of a noisemaker is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 186,169issued to Rowbotham, who describes a noisemaking device consisting of asteel box enclosing a flat steel plate that, when depressed, creates aclicking sound. U.S. army paratroopers used a similar device called a“cricket” during WWII to quietly communicate to one another duringdangerous situations. Examples of the noisemaker are documented in bookstitled “D-Day: Jun. 6, 1944” by Stephen E. Ambrose; “D-Day: TheStrategy, the Men, the Equipment” by Bernard C. Nulty; “D-Day: As TheySaw It” by Lord Carver and many others. The “cricket” was first a toybefore the military made it part of their lifesaving equipment. Today asimilar handheld device is used to train animals.

The “cricket” generally consisted of two pieces of steel; one served asthe body of the noisemaking device and the other was usually a thin,flat, rectangular piece used to make the actual noise. The “cricket”requires a user to create noise by using their thumb or finger to bendthe flat, rectangular piece of steel. The use of the user's thumb orfinger to bend the steel plate could easily cause the muscles of theirhand to become weak if operated for more than a short period. The deviceonly produces two sounds; one when a user presses down on the steelplate and another slightly different sound when the user releases thesteel plate.

Another example of a known noisemaker is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No.3,902,272 issued to Molenaar, who illustrates a sound generating devicesimilar to the “cricket”, consisting of a steel box enclosing a piece offlat steel plate which when depressed creates a clicking sound. Thedifference between Molenaar's sound generating device and the “cricket”is how the steel plate is held firm inside the device. The “cricket” isdesigned so that only one end of the steel plate is allowed to bend.Molenaar's device is designed so that neither end of the steel plate isallowed to bend. Molenaar's device creates sound by bending the middleof the steel plate. A person using the device is required to use theirfinger to activate the steel plate by pressing down on the steel plate.The device, like the “cricket” is only able to produce a limited amountof sound and project sound a short distance. Also, Molenaar's designcreates limited sound because the user is required to press on the veryarea that produces the sound.

Furthermore, most past and present noisemakers used at parades, parties,sports arenas, and many other events are often provided to the publicfree of charge. Numerous companies purchase noisemakers to advertisetheir names and logos in hopes of generating future business. Many ofthe noisemakers purchased are made of materials that limit the size of acompany's name and logo to one color. Many of these noisemakers alsolimit the amount of space available for advertising. An advertiser needsa noisemaker that is made with a material that can allow for usingseveral colors and a larger imprint area for advertising. A noisemakerthat offers multiple color imprinting and a larger imprint area atprices similar to a competitor's noisemaker is a tremendous advantage tothe advertiser.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for an improved handheldnoisemaker that is able to create a variety of sounds, that is able todirect the sound in a particular direction and that is easy to use.There is also a need for a noisemaker that can be made of a materialthat can be imprinted with several colors, and that provides asubstantial imprint area advertising.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by wayof limitation, in the figures of the accompnaying drawings and in whichlike reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 is an environmental view of an exemplary percussion instrumentand noisemaking device, according, to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the exemplary percussion instrument andnoisemaking device illustrated in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate an exemplary percussion instrument andnoisemaking device being held by a user, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view, and FIG. 4 is a sideview;

FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 are detailed views ofexemplary components of an exemplary percussion instrument andnoisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 5 shows an exemplary handle. FIG. 6 shows a top view of the handle.FIG. 7 shows an exemplary paddle. FIG. 8 shows an exemplary flexibleplate, and FIG. 9 shows an exemplary brace;

FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 show an exemplary flexible plate from a percussioninstrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 10 shows a top view of the exemplary flexibleplate, and FIG. 11 shows a side, angled, and top view of the exemplaryflexible plate being held by a user;

FIG. 12, FIG. 13, and FIG. 14 illustrate an exemplary brace from apercussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 12 illustrates, by way of example and notby way of limitation, the brace as the paddle is inserted into thebrace. FIG. 13 illustrates, by way of example and not by way oflimitation, the brace attached to the top of the handle. FIG. 14illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a viewlooking down inside the top of the handle;

FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17 are interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 15 shows the paddle in the forwardposition; FIG. 16 shows the paddle in the neutral position; and FIG. 17shows the paddle in the backward position;

FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemakingdevice while the paddle is in motion, in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 19, FIG. 20, and FIG. 21 are motion views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 19 illustrates backward movement; FIG. 20illustrates forward movement; and FIG. 21 illustrates forward andbackward movement;

FIG. 22 illustrates the use of an exemplary trigger mechanism in anexemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 illustrates the sound flow from an exemplary percussioninstrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 24, FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple flexibleplates, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.24 shows a view with the paddle in the forward position: FIG. 25 showsthe paddle in the neutral position; and FIG. 26 shows the paddle in thebackward position;

FIG. 27, FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple paddles, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 27 showsthe paddles in the forward position; FIG. 28 shows the paddles in theneutral position; and FIG. 29 shows the paddles in the backwardposition;

FIG. 30, FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 illustrate interior views of a exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 30 shows the paddle in theforward position; FIG. 31 shows the paddle in the neutral position; andFIG. 32 slows the paddle in the backward position;

FIG. 33, FIG. 34 and FIG. 35 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 shows the paddle in theforward position; FIG. 34 shows the paddle in the neutral position; andFIG. 35 shows the paddle in the backward position;

FIG. 36, FIG. 37, FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 illustrate cross sectional viewsof an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device comprisinga stick and a flag, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 36, FIG. 37 and FIG. 38 shows a side view of the device,and FIG. 39 shows the front view of the device;

FIG. 40, FIG. 41, FIG. 42, FIG. 43, FIG. 44 and FIG. 45 illustrate crosssectional views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemakingdevice in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.40 shows the paddle in the neutral position; FIG. 41 shows the paddlemoving in the direction of the backward position; FIG. 42 shows thepaddle in the backward position; FIG. 43 shows the paddle in the neutralposition; FIG. 44 shows the paddle moving in the direction of theforward position; and FIG. 45 shows the paddle in the forward position.

Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are notnecessarily drawn to scale.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To achieve the forgoing and other objects and in accordance with thepurpose of the invention, a variety of percussion instruments andnoisemaking devices are described.

An embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a blade memberhaving a handle joining portion at its base, a flexible plate memberoperable for making sound (e.g., without limitation, low-pitched,clicking sounds and alternative, louder, high-pitched clicking sounds),the flexible plate member having an indention that is operable forproducing a sound when the flexible plate member is flexed about theindention, and a handle, an upper portion of which is configured toreceive and joined to a lower portion of the flexible plate member andbe pivotably joined to a lower portion of the blade such that the bladepivots when the handle is translated perpendicular to the plane of theblade, and the blade and the flexible plate member being oriented suchthat when the blade pivots, the blade causes the flexible plate memberto flex and thereby make a sound.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the lower portion of theflexible plate member is a generally narrow protruding neck that isoperable to be received into the handle, which may optionally furtherinclude a pivoting mechanism in which the neck including at least onepivot joint member and the handle including a complementary pivotingjoint receiving member, both of which properly mate for pivotablyjoining the blade to the handle. In alternate embodiment of the presentinventions the pivoting location of the pivoting mechanism is adjustablesuch that at least one alternate sound is produced by making the neckcause a different contact point with an inside front part of the handle.In an embodiment of the present invention, the upper handle portionincludes at least one hole generally opening in the direction of thetranslation, at least one hole being operable for channeling in thedirection of translation any sound produced by the flexible plate. In anembodiment of the present invention, the blade is further a generallyelongated member having an object joined thereto; which objects mayoptionally be shaped as a flag, a football, a pennant, a baseball, abottle, a can of beer or other suitable object. A bracing member isfurther included in some embodiment of the present invention, whichmember braces the upper handle portion such that the bracing member isoperable to strengthen the top of the upper handle portion from breakagewhen the handle is normally translated forwards and/or backwards.

In alternate embodiments of the present invention, means are provided toperform the foregoing functions.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the flexible plate member,the indention, and the lower blade portion pivotal joining all arecooperatively configured together such that a gentle flapping handletranslation motion causes the flexible plate member to produce a firstset of one or more sounds, while a more vigorous flapping handletranslation motion causes the flexible plate member to produce a secondset of one or more sounds.

Another embodiment of the present invention further includes anotherflexible plate member disposed on an opposite side of the blade suchthat the blade causes the other flexible plate member to flex andthereby make a sound when the blade pivots to an opposite extreme.

Other features, advantages, and object of the present invention willbecome more apparent and be more readily understood from the followingdetailed description, which should be read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailedfigures and description set forth herein.

Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to theFigures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatthe detailed description given herein with respect to these figures isfor explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limitedembodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled inthe art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention,recognized a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches,depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement thefunctionality of any given detail described herein, beyond theparticular implementation choices in the following embodiments describedand shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations ofthe invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit withinthe scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read asplural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, whereappropriate and alternatives embodiments do not necessarily imply thatthe two are mutually exclusive.

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference toembodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

It is to be understood that any exact measurements/dimensions orparticular construction materials indicated herein are solely providedas examples of suitable configurations and are not intended to belimiting in any way. Depending on the needs of the particularapplication, those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in lightof the following teachings, a multiplicity of suitable alternativeimplementation details.

FIG. 1 is an environmental view of an exemplary percussion instrumentand noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention. As shown by way of example, and not by way of limitation, inFIG. 1, a percussion instrument and noisemaker made in accordance withthe present invention comprises four elements, shown separately in FIG.2.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the exemplary percussion instrument andnoisemaking device illustrated in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention. In the present embodiment, the noisemaking devicecomprises a paddle 10, a handle 20, a flexible plate 30, and a brace 40.Elements of the noisemaking device may be constructed of a variety ofmaterials. Handle 20 may be constructed of plastic, metal, wood, etc. Inthe preferred embodiment, handle 20 is made of acrylonitrile butadienestyrene. Paddle 10 may be constructed of any durable material that canbe imprinted with advertisements or logos, such as, but not limited to,wood, metal, plastic, etc. In the preferred embodiment, paddle 10 ismade of polypropylene. Flexible plate 30 may be constructed of anydurable, flexible material such as, but not limited to, metal orplastic. In the preferred embodiment, flexible plate 30 is constructedof spring steel.

FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate an exemplary percussion instrument andnoisemaking device being held by a user, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view, and FIG. 4 is a sideview.

FIG. 5, FIG. 6. FIG. 7, FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 are detailed views ofexemplary components of an exemplary percussion instrument andnoisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 5 shows exemplary handle 20. FIG. 6 shows a top view of handle 20.FIG. 7 shows exemplary paddle 10. FIG. 8 shows exemplary flexible plate30, and FIG. 9 shows exemplary brace 40. FIG. 5 illustrates, by way ofexample and not by way of limitation, handle 20 including, withoutlimitation, a top opening 21, a front opening 22, a pivot hole 23B, anda wrist strap holder 24. The noise generated is able to escape thedevice through top opening 21 and front opening 22, as shown in FIG. 23.In one suitable implementation, handle 20 measures 75 cm in height, 26cm in length, and 17 cm in width, and front opening 22 measures 35 cm inheight and 20 cm in width. However, alternate measurements for handle 20and front opening 22 would be suitable depending upon the needs of theparticular application.

FIG. 6 illustrates, by way of example and not by limitation, a neck 13Aof paddle 10 inserted into top opening 21 of handle 20. In the presentembodiment, attaching paddle 10 to handle 20 involves inserting a pivot12A, shown in FIG. 7, into a pivot hole 23A and inserting a pivot 12B,shown in FIG. 7, into pivot hole 23B, as shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 alsoillustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, flexibleplate 30 inside of handle 20, an indention 31 in flexible plate 30, andwrist strap holder 24. In the preferred embodiment, pivot holes 23A and23B of handle 20 measure 4 cm in diameter, and the center of pivot holes23A and 23B of handle 20 are located 5 cm from top opening, 21 of handle20 and 8 cm from front opening 22. However, alternate measurements wouldalso be suitable.

FIG. 7 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, adetailed view of paddle 10, which comprises an imprint area 11 fordisplaying advertising, product logos, and/or other information. FIG. 7also illustrates pivot 12A, pivot 12B and neck 13A of paddle 10, aforward pressure point 13B and a backward pressure point 13C located onthe backside of neck 13A of paddle 10. See FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 for a moredetailed description of forward pressure point 13B and backward pressurepoint 13C. In the present embodiment, paddle 10 is large enough thatimprint area 11 provides adequate space for advertisements and logos. Inthe preferred embodiment, paddle 10 measures 15.5 cm in height, 11 cm inlength, and 0.3 cm in width, and neck 13A of paddle 10 measures 2.2 cmin height, 2.2 cm in length, and 0.3 cm in width. However, alternateembodiments may be made in various sizes.

FIG. 8 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,flexible plate 30, and indention 31. In the preferred embodiment,flexible plate 30 measures 4.7 cm in height, 2.2 cm in length, and 0.02cm in width. Also, in the preferred embodiment, the center point ofindention 31 of flexible plate 30 is located 2.9 cm from the longestedge of flexible plate 30 and 1.8 cm from the shortest edge of flexibleplate 30, and indention 31 measures 0.06 cm in diameter. However, inalternate embodiments, these dimensions may be altered.

FIG. 9 illustrates, by way of example and not limitation, brace 40.Brace 40 is used to reinforce the strength of handle 20 when neck 13A ofpaddle 10 makes contact with the front inside edge of handle 20, asshown in FIG. 15. In the preferred embodiment, brace 40 measures 0.4 cmin height, 3.1 cm in length, and 2.1 cm in width, but alternatemeasurements would be suitable. Brace 40 may be constructed of anydurable material such as, but not limited to plastic, metal or wood. Inthe preferred embodiment, brace 40 is made of acrylonitrile butadienestyrene.

FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 show exemplary flexible plate 30 from a percussioninstrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 10 shows a top view of flexible plate 30, andFIG. 11 shows a side, angled, and top view of flexible plate 30 beingheld by a user. FIG. 10 shows, by way of example and not limitation,flexible plate 30, indention 31, flexible plate 30, and a flexible areaextending from a point 32A to a point 32B of flexible plate 30 that isable to bend when paddle 10 exerts pressure on flexible plate 30. FIG.10 also illustrates an area from point 32B to a point 32C of flexibleplate 30 that is held in a fixed position inside handle 20 and not ableto bend when paddle 10 exerts pressure on flexible plate 30. FIG. 11illustrates, by way of example, the size of flexible plate 30 relativeto a user's hand. In the preferred embodiment, flexible plate 30 isgenerally a thin, flat rectangular shaped surface having small indention31 located at one end.

FIG. 12, FIG. 13, and FIG. 14 illustrate an exemplary brace from apercussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 12 illustrates, by way of example and notby way of limitation, brace 40 as paddle 10 is inserted into brace 40.FIG. 13 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,brace 40 attached to the top of handle 20. FIG. 14 illustrates, by wayof example and not by way of limitation, a view looking down inside thetop of handle 20. In the present embodiment, paddle 10 and flexibleplate 30 are inserted into handle 20. Brace 40 is attached to the top ofhandle 20. Flexible plate 30 is seated against paddle 10.

FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and FIG. 17 are interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 15 shows paddle 10 in the forwardposition; FIG. 16 shows paddle 10 in the neutral position; and FIG. 17shows paddle 10 in the backward position. FIG. 15 illustrates, by way ofexample and not by way of limitation, an interior view of neck 13A ofpaddle 10 inserted into handle 20. In this illustration, neck 13A ofpaddle 10, while in the forward position, makes contact with a topinside front edge 25A of handle 20 causing paddle 10 to bend flexibleplate 30 at forward pressure point 13B causing indention 31 to create asound. FIG. 16 illustrates how neck 13A of paddle 10 while in theneutral position also allows for flexible plate 30 to remain in theneutral position. FIG. 17 illustrates how neck 13A of paddle 10, whilein the backward position, does not make contact with a top inside backedge 25B of handle 20 causing paddle 10 to bend flexible plate 30 atbackward pressure point 13C causing indention 31 to create a sound.

There is a difference in how flexible plate 30 is bent in FIG. 15compared to FIG. 17. This difference is a result of how neck 3A ofpaddle 10 bends flexible plate 30. Indention 31 reacts to forwardpressure point 13B of neck 13A when paddle 10 moves forward as shown inFIG. 15, and indention 31 reacts to backward pressure point 13C of neck13A when paddle 10 moves backward as shown in FIG. 17. By allowing neck13A of paddle 10 to make contact with inside front edge 25A or handle 20when paddle 10 moves forward, more pressure is exerted on flexible plate30 compared to when neck 13A or paddle 10 is not making contact withinside back edge 25B. By not allowing neck 13A of paddle 10 to makecontact with inside back edge 25B of handle 20 when paddle 10 movesbackward, less pressure is exerted on flexible plate 30.

FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemakingdevice while paddle 10 is in motion, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present invention. FIG. 18 shows a forward motion of paddle 10 froma backward paddle position 10B to a forward paddle position 10A and abackward motion of paddle 10 from forward paddle position 10A tobackward paddle position 10C. Paddle 10 moves in a forward motion from acenter paddle position 10B to forward paddle position 10A eventuallytouching top inside front edge 25A of handle 20 where paddle 10 reachesits furthest forward limit, forward paddle position 10A, causingindention 31 of flexible plate 30 to create a sound. As paddle 10 movesin a backward motion from forward paddle position 10A to center paddleposition 10C, the end of neck 13A of paddle 10, as shown in FIG. 7 andFIG. 15, releases the pressure on flexible plate 30 allowing flexibleplate 30 to return to its previous shape, as shown in FIG. 16, creatinga second slightly different sound. A third sound is created when paddle10 moves in a backward motion from center paddle position 10B tobackward paddle position 10C eventually reaching the furthest backwardlimit, backward paddle position 10C, causing indention 31 of flexibleplate 30 to create a sound. As paddle 10 moves in a forward motion frombackward paddle position 10C to center paddle position 10B, the tipperpart of neck 13A, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 17, releases the pressureon flexible plate 30, allowing indention 31 of flexible plate 30 toreturn to its previous shape, as shown in FIG. 16, creating a fourthslightly different sound.

The four different sound characteristics mentioned earlier may becreated, by way of example, and not limitation, in the followingmanners: when paddle 10 moves from center paddle position 10B to forwardpaddle position 10A, when paddle 10 moves from forward paddle position10A to center paddle position 10B; when paddle 10 moves from centerpaddle position 10B to backward paddle position 10C; and when paddle 10moves from backward paddle position 10C to center paddle position 10B.

FIG. 19, FIG. 20, and FIG. 21 are motion views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodimentof the present invention. FIG. 19 illustrates backward movement; FIG. 20illustrates forward movement; and FIG. 21 illustrates forward andbackward movement. FIG. 19 illustrates, by way of example and not by wayof limitation, how a user can use the present embodiment to make oneseries of sounds by moving paddle 10 back and forth between centerpaddle position 10B and backward paddle position 10C. FIG. 20illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, how a usercan use the device to make a second series of sounds by moving paddle 10back and forth between forward paddle position 10A and center paddleposition 10B. In this example, a user is required to brace the backsideof paddle 10 with their thumb to keep paddle 10 from moving to backwardpaddle position 10C. FIG. 21 illustrates, by way of example and not byway of limitation, how a user can use the device to make a third seriesof sounds by moving paddle 10 back and forth between forward paddleposition 10A and backward paddle position 10C.

FIG. 22 illustrates the use of an exemplary trigger mechanism in anexemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to anembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 shows, by way of exampleand not by way of limitation, how the device can produce additionalsounds when a user uses an index finger 33 to exert different amounts ofpressure on flexible plate 30. Placing index finger 33 through frontopening 22 of handle 20 allows the user to trigger additional soundswhile moving paddle 10 back and forth. The sounds created using thismethod can range from an assortment of soft, low-pitched muffledclicking to a series of loud, high-pitched popping.

FIG. 23 illustrates the sound flow from an exemplary percussioninstrument and noisemaking device, according, to an embodiment of thepresent invention. FIG. 23 shows, by way of example and not by way oflimitation, how sound flows from front opening 22 and top opening 21 ofhandle 20. Front opening 22 of handle 20 allows the user to direct mostof the sound forward in the direction of an arrow 22A. A limited amountof sound escapes from top opening 21 of handle 20, moving upward in thedirection of an arrow 21A.

A user can also create additional sounds by partially covering or fullycovering front opening 22 or handle 20, thus restricting the soundallowed to resonate from the device. Also, increasing the speed andforce of the back and forth movement of paddle 10 may change theintensity of the sound.

In alternate embodiments of the present invention handle 20 may beredesigned, fully closing front opening 22 or making front opening 22larger, smaller or by adding multiple openings to handle 20. It is alsounderstood that one could increase or decrease the sounds created bychanging the diameter of indention 31 in flexible plate 30, by changingthe size and thickness of flexible plate 30, or by drilling holes intoflexible plate 30. In other alternate embodiments, paddle 10, handle 20,flexible plate 30 and brace 40 may be constructed of alternate materialssuch as, but not limited to, plastic, wood, metal or some other suitablematerial.

FIG. 24, FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple flexibleplates 30A and 30B, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 24 shows a view with a paddle 10 in a forward position10A; FIG. 25 shows paddle 10 in a neutral position 10B; and FIG. 26shows paddle 10 in a backward position 10C. FIG. 24 illustrates, by wayof example and not by way of limitation, paddle 10 and flexible plates30A and 30B in forward paddle position 10A inserted into a handle 20.FIG. 24 illustrates how an alternative design of one end of paddle 10pivoting on an axis 23B causes a lower end 10D of paddle 10 to bendflexible plate 30B when paddle 10 is in forward paddle position 10Acausing an indention 31B on flexible plate 30B to create a sound.Furthermore, flexible plates 30A and 30B are held in place by an anchor34. Anchor 34 may be one of a variety of means including, but notlimited to, glue, a block that flexible plates 30A and 30B are insertedinto, a clamp, a screw, and etc.

FIG. 25 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,paddle 10 in neutral position 10B and flexible plates 30A and 30Binserted into handle 20. FIG. 25 illustrates how the pivoting of paddle10 on axis 23B while in neutral position 10B also allows flexible plates30A and 30B and indentions 31A and 31B on flexible plates 30A and 30B toremain in a neutral position. In addition, lower end 10D of paddle 10 isinserted between flexible plates 30A and 30B, and flexible plates 30Aand 30B are held in place by anchor 34.

FIG. 26 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,paddle 10 and flexible plates 30A and 30B inserted into handle 20 inbackward paddle position 10C. FIG. 26 illustrates how the pivoting ofpaddle 10 on axis 23B causes lower portion 10D of paddle 10 to bendflexible plate 30A when paddle 10 is in backward paddle position 10Ccausing indention 31A to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plates30A and 30B are held in place by anchor 34.

FIG. 27, FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple paddles 36A,36B, and 36C, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 27 shows paddles 36A, 36B, and 36C in the forward position; FIG. 28shows paddles 36A, 36B, and 36C in the neutral position; and FIG. 29shows paddles 36A, 36B, and 36C in the backward position. FIG. 27illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, multiplepaddles 36A, 36B, 36C in the forward position, and flexible plates 30Aand 30B inserted into a handle 20. In the present embodiment, flexibleplates 30A and 30B are similar to prior art flexible plates disclosed byMolenaar. Paddles 36A, 36B and 36C pivot on axes 23A, 23B and 23C,respectively, causing paddle 36A to bend flexible plate 30A when paddle36A is in the forward paddle position causing an indention 31A to createa sound.

Center paddle 36B does not make contact with flexible plates 30A or 30B.Because center paddle 36B moves freely on axis 23B and is made of aflexible or non-flexible material such as but not limited to, rubber,plastic, metal, wood, cardboard, and etc., center paddle 36B is able tomake contact with front paddle 36A at a forward position 11A. Likewise,center paddle 36B is able to make contact with rear paddle 36C at abackward position 11B, as shown in FIG. 29. The present multiple paddledesign is able to generate numerous sounds depending on the materialused for center paddle 36B compared to outside paddles 36A and 36C andthe material used for the flexible plates 30A and 30B. Examples ofmaterials that would be suitable for outer paddles 36A and 36C are,without limitation, rigid plastic, wood, metal, etc. Examples ofmaterials that would be suitable for flexible plates 30A and 30B are,without limitation, metal, plastic, etc. Furthermore, FIG. 27illustrates how flexible plates 30A and 30B are held in place by anchors34A and 34B. Anchors 34A and 34B may be of a variety of means including,but not limited to, glue, blocks that flexible plates 30A and 30B areinserted into, clamps. screws, etc.

FIG. 28 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,paddles 36A, 36B and 36C in the neutral position, and flexible plates30A, 30B inserted into handle 20. FIG. 28 illustrates how, when paddles36A, 36B and 36C are in a neutral position, the device allows flexibleplates 30A and 30B and indentions 31A and 31B on flexible plates 30A and30B to remain in a neutral position. Furthermore, FIG. 28 illustrateshow flexible plates 30A and 30B are held in place by anchors 34A and34B.

FIG. 29 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,paddles 36A, 36B and 36C in the backward position, and two flexibleplates 30A, 30B inserted into handle 20. Paddles 35A, 36B and 36C pivoton axes 23A, 23B and 23C, respectively, causing paddle 36C to bendflexible plate 30B when paddle 36C is in the backward paddle positioncausing indention 31B on flexible plate 30B to create a sound. Centerpaddle 36B does not make contact with flexible plates 30A or 30B.Because center paddle 36B moves freely on pivot 23B, center paddle 36Bis able to make contact with back paddle 36C at backward position 11B.Likewise, center paddle 36B is able to make contact with front paddle36A at forward position 11A, as shown in FIG. 27. This multiple paddledesign is able to generate numerous sounds depending on the materialused for center paddle 36B compared to the outside paddles 36A and 36Cand the material used for flexible plates 30A and 30B.

FIG. 30, FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with anembodiment or the present invention. FIG. 30 shows a paddle 10 in aforward position 10A; FIG. 31 shows paddle 10 in a neutral position 10B;and FIG. 32 shows paddle 10 in a backward position 10C. In the presentembodiment, paddle 10 and flexible plates 30A and 30B are inserted intoa handle 20. Flexible plates 30A and 30B are similar to those disclosedby Molenaar. FIG. 30 illustrates how an alternative design of one end ofpaddle 10 pivoting on an axis 23B, causing paddle 10 to bend flexibleplate 30B when paddle 10 is in forward paddle position 10A, causes anindention 31B to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plates 30A and30B are held in place by anchors 35A, 35B, 35C and 35D. Anchors 35A,35B, 35C, and 35D may be of a variety of means including, but notlimited to, glue, blocks that flexible plates 30A and 30B are insertedinto, clamps, screws, etc.

FIG. 31 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of imitation,paddle 10 and flexible plates 30A and 30B in the neutral position;inserted into handle 20. FIG. 31 illustrates how paddle 10, when inneutral paddle position 10B, allows flexible plates 30A and 30B andindentions 31A and 31B in flexible plates 30A and 30B to also remain ina neutral position. Furthermore, FIG. 31 illustrates how flexible plates30A and 30B are held in place by anchors 35A, 35B, 35C and 35D.

FIG. 32 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,paddle 10 and flexible plates 30A and 30B in backward position 10Cinserted into handle 20. FIG. 32 illustrates paddle 10 pivoting, on axis23B, causing paddle 10 to bend flexible plate 30A when paddle 10 is inbackward paddle position 10C, thus causing indention 31A to create asound. Furthermore, FIG. 32 illustrates how flexible plates 30A and 30Bare held in place by anchors 35A, 35B, 35C and 35D.

FIG. 33, FIG. 34 and FIG. 35 illustrate interior views of an exemplarypercussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 shows a paddle 10 in aforward position 10A: FIG. 34 shows paddle 10 in a neutral position 10B;and FIG. 35 shows paddle 10 in a backward position 10C. FIG. 33illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle 10and a flexible plate 30 inserted into a handle 20 and in forwardposition 10A. FIG. 33 illustrates how paddle 10 pivots on an axis 23Bcausing paddle 10 to bend flexible plate 30 when paddle 10 is in forwardpaddle position 10A, thus causing an indention 31 on flexible plate 30to create a sound. Furthermore, one end of flexible plate 30 is held inplace by an anchor 34. The other end of the flexible plate 30 isattached to paddle 10 and held in place by anchor 32. Anchor 32 andanchor 34 may be one of a variety of means including, but not limitedto, glue, a block that flexible plates 30A and 30B are inserted into, aclamp, a screw etc.

FIG. 34 illustrates paddle 10 and flexible plate 30 in neutral position10B inserted into handle 20. FIG. 34 illustrates how when paddle 10 isin neutral paddle position 10B and when paddle 10 is not moving on axis23B, flexible plate 30 and indention 31 on flexible plate 30 are also ina neutral position. Furthermore, FIG. 34 illustrates how flexible plate30 is held in place by anchor 34. The other end of the flexible plate isattached to paddle 10 and held in place by anchor 32.

FIG. 35 illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation,paddle 10 and flexible plate 30 inserted into handle 20 and in backwardposition 10C. FIG. 35 illustrates how paddle 10 pivots on axis 23Bcausing paddle 10 to bend flexible plate 30 when paddle 10 is inbackward paddle position 10C, thus causing indention 31 on flexibleplate 30 to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plate 30 is held inplace by anchor 34. The other end of the flexible plate is attached topaddle 10 and held in place by anchor 32.

FIG. 36, FIG. 37, FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 illustrate cross-sectional viewsof an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device comprisinga flag 50, a stick 51, a stick neck 52 and an anchor 54, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 36, FIG. 37 and FIG.38 shows a side view of the device, and FIG. 38 shows the front view ofthe device. The present embodiment comprises flag 50 attached to stick51 attached to a stick neck 52, and a flexible plate 30 with anindention 31 inserted into a handle 20. The present embodiment createssound when stick 51 attached to stick neck 52 pivots on axis 23B causingstick neck 52 to bend flexible plate 30 causing indention 31 to createsound. FIG. 36 shows sticks 51 in a forward position 10A. FIG. 37 showsstick 51 in a neutral position 10B. FIG. 38 shows sticks 51 in backwardposition 10C. FIG. 39 shows stick 51 in a neutral position 10B.Furthermore, FIG. 36, FIG. 37, FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 illustrates howflexible plate 30 is held in place by anchor 54. Anchor 54 may be one ofa variety of means including, but not limited to, glue, a block thatflexible plate 30 is inserted into, clamp, a screw etc.

FIG. 37 illustrates by way of example and not by way of limitation,stick 51 and flexible plate 30 in neutral position 10B inserted intohandle 20. FIG. 37 illustrates how when stick 51 is in neutral position10B and when stick 51 is not moving on axis 23B, flexible plate 30 andindention 31 are also in a neutral position. Furthermore, FIG. 37illustrates how flexible plate 30 is held in place by anchor 34.

FIG. 38 illustrates by way of example and not by way of limitation,stick 51 and flexible plate 30 inserted into handle 20 and in backwardposition 10C. FIG. 38 illustrates how stick 51 attached to stick neck 52pivots on axis 23B causing indention 31 on flexible plate 30 to createsound. Furthermore, flexible plate 30 is held in place by anchor 34.

Yet other embodiments of the present invention create different soundsby changing the amount of pressure exerted on the flexible plate by, forexample, without limitation, increasing or decreasing the size, shapeand weight of the paddle or paddles. An example, without limitation, ofincreasing or decreasing the size, shape and weight of the paddle wouldbe to use multiple paddles or replace the paddle with a stick holding aflag or pennant, as shown in FIG. 36 and FIG. 37, or to replace thepaddle with a gun like trigger or string to bend the flexible plate. Insome embodiments the paddle or paddles may be substituted with an objectwith another shape such as, but not limited to, a football, a baseball,four leaf clover, pumpkin, bottle, can container, etc. One could alsochange the pressure exerted on the flexible plate by repositioning thepivot holes and/or by allowing the paddle to not make contact with thetop inside front edge of the handle and instead to allow the paddle tomake contact with the rear inside edge of the handle. It is alsopossible to change the sound created and the amount of sound created byattaching paddles to both ends of the handle and/or by adding more thanone flexible plate and more than one indention to the flexible plate. Itis also possible to activate the flexible plate by holding the paddleinstead of the handle. Holding the paddle and forcing the handle to movebackward and forward can also cause the paddle to bend the flexibleplate causing the indention to create sound. Those skilled in the art,in light of the present teachings, will readily recognize other usefulways to adapt the present invention in light of the prior art previouslymentioned. One example, of which is to substitute the flexible platewith a flexible plate similar to the type used by Molenaar asillustrated earlier.

At least one embodiment will next be described and show that implementsa flexible plate without the use of an indention as shown in priorembodiments. It is contemplated that in some practical application, suchindentionless embodiments could be relatively more easily and cheaplyproduced.

FIG. 40, FIG. 41, FIG. 42, FIG. 43, FIG. 44 and FIG. 45 illustrateinterior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemakingdevice, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.40 shows a paddle 10 in a neutral position 10A; FIG. 41 shows paddle 10moving towards a backward position 10B; FIG. 42 shows paddle 10 in abackward position 10C; FIG. 43 shows paddle 10 in a neutral position10D; FIG. 44 shows paddle 10 moving towards a forward position 10E; andFIG. 45 shows paddle 10 in a forward position 10F. FIG. 40 illustrates,by way of example, and not by way of limitation, paddle 10 and aflexible plate 30 inserted into a handle 20 with paddle 10 in theneutral position 10A and flexible plate 30 in a neutral position 30A.Furthermore, FIG. 40 illustrates how flexible plate 30 is held in placeby an anchor 34. FIG. 41 illustrates how paddle 10 pivots on an axis 23Bmoving towards the backward position 10B bending flexible plate 30 in abackward position 30B. FIG. 42 illustrates how paddle 10 pivots on axis23B in the backward position 10C releasing flexible plate 30 to createsound causing flexible plate 30 to return to a neutral position 30C.Furthermore, FIG. 42 illustrates how flexible plate 30 is held in placeby anchor 34. FIG. 43 illustrates how when paddle 10 is in the neutralposition 10D and when paddle 10 is not moving on axis 23B, flexibleplate 30 is also in a neutral position 30D. Furthermore, FIG. 43illustrates how flexible plate 30 is held in place by anchor 34. FIG. 44illustrates how paddle 10 pivots on axis 23B moving towards the forwardposition 10E bending flexible plate 30 in the forward position 30E.Furthermore, FIG. 44 illustrates how flexible plate 30 is held in placeby anchor 34. FIG. 45 illustrates how paddle 10 pivots on axis 23B inthe forward position 10F releasing flexible plate 30 to create soundcausing flexible plate 30 to return to a neutral position 30F.Furthermore, FIG. 45 illustrates how flexible plate 30 is held in placeby anchor 34.

It is to be understood that the relationship of the parts and theirdimensions include variations in size, materials, shape, form, functionand manner of operation, assembly and use, and are deemed readilyapparent and obvious to one skilled in the art. It is further understoodthat an equivalent relationships illustrated in the drawings anddescribed in the specifications are intended to be encompassed by thepresent invention. The illustrative drawings and the specificationsdescribed are not intended to limit the invention to the exactconstruction and operation shown and described since numerousmodifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in theart.

Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention,other equivalent or alternative percussion instrument and noisemakingdevices according to the present invention will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art. The invention has been described above by way ofillustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended tolimit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. The invention isthus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives fallingwithin the spirit and scope of the following claims.

1. A percussion instrument and noisemaking device comprised of: at leastone blade member having a handle joining portion at its base; a flexibleplate member operable for making sound, said flexible plate memberhaving a generally circular indention that is operable for producing asound when said flexible plate member is flexed about said indention;and a handle comprising an upper portion which is hollow, said upperportion configured to receive and join to a lower portion of saidflexible plate member, thereby containing all of said flexible platemember within said hollow upper portion, said upper portion furtherconfigured to be pivotably joined to a lower portion of said at leastone blade such that said at least one blade member pivots when saidhandle is translated perpendicular to the plane of said at least oneblade, and said at least one blade and said flexible plate member beingoriented such that when said at least one blade pivots, said at leastone blade causes said flexible plate member to flex and thereby flexsaid indentation to make a sound emanating about said indentation. 2.The device of claim 1, in which said lower portion of said at least oneblade member is a generally narrow protruding neck that is operable tobe received into said handle.
 3. The device of claim 2, furthercomprising a pivoting mechanism in which said neck comprises at leastone pivot joint member and said handle comprises a complementarypivoting joint receiving member, both of which properly mate forpivotably joining said at least one blade to said handle.
 4. The deviceof claim 1, in which said lower portion of said flexible plate member ismade of a metal or a plastic.
 5. The device of claim 1, in which saidupper handle portion comprises at least one hole generally opening inthe direction of said translation, said at least one hole being operablefor channeling in said direction of translation any sound produced bysaid flexible plate and being configured to allow an index finger beinserted into said upper handle to exert varying amounts of pressure onsaid flexible plate member to trigger additional sounds.
 6. The deviceof claim 1, in which said at least one blade is further a generallyelongated member having an object joined thereto.
 7. The device of claim6, in which said object is shaped as a flag, a football, a pennant, abaseball, a bottle, or a can container.
 8. The device of claim 1,further comprising a bracing member joined to a top of said upper handleportion bracing said upper handle portion such that said bracing memberis operable to strengthen said top of said upper handle portion frombreakage when said handle is normally translated forwards and/orbackwards.
 9. The device of claim 1, in which said at least one blade isformed of a relatively non-compliant material.
 10. The device of claim1, in which said sounds produced by said indentation are low-pitched,clicking sounds and alternative, louder, high-pitched clicking sounds.11. The device of claim 1, in which said flexible plate member, saidindention, and said lower blade portion pivotal joining all arecooperatively configure together such that a gentle flapping handletranslation motion causes said flexible plate member to produce a firstset of one or more sounds, while a more vigorous flapping handletranslation motion causes said flexible plate member to produce a secondset of one or more sounds.
 12. The device of claim 1, farther comprisinganother flexible plate member having a generally circular indentation,said another flexible plate member disposed on an opposite side of saidat least one blade such that said at least one blade causes said otherflexible plate member to flex and thereby make a sound when said atleast one blade pivots to an opposite extreme.
 13. The device of claim1, in which said blade is generally broad and generally flat.